How to change an electrical plate

Thursday

Jul 31, 2008 at 12:01 AMJul 31, 2008 at 5:49 AM

Dont’ call or pay an electrician, learn how to replace it yourself.

By Michelle L. Quinn

Above all else, turn off the circuit breaker that feeds into the bathroom. If you’re not sure which one it is, test them all and then label it for future reference. Also make a note for anyone coming and going that you’re doing electrical work so no one turns the power back on.

Remove the current faceplate and test the outlet with an electrical tester to make sure the power is completely off. Once you’re sure, remove the screws from the top and bottom of the old toggle switch.

Pull the entire switch unit out of the plastic or metal box installed inside the wall that holds the switch in place – that’s called the junction box.

Disconnect the wires you see connected to the old switch box from the switch. If your switch has wires coming off of it and joining up with the wires from the wall (attached with electrical caps), disconnect it at the caps.

Connect all wire tips by twisting them together and screwing on a plastic wire cap, making sure the bare wires are completely and securely covered. (Most switches will include these in the package). Usually, the sequence will be matching like-colored wires (black to black, red to red, etc.).

Use electrical tape to wrap around the base of the connection if you notice that there is any copper wire still exposed.

Push the switch into place.

Reinsert the mounting screws to attach the new switch to the junction box.

Turn your power back on and test your work. If it works, attach the new faceplate and you’re good to go. If not, test with your electrical tester. If power’s coming through to no result, recheck your wiring.

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